Complementary therapies are available and can be helpful for a whole range of physical and mental health problems.  They are particularly helpful for people experiencing problems with pain control, sleep patterns, anxiety or depression.  If you have a serious mental illness you could benefit greatly from the complementary approach, for example, when your anxiety levels are high.  However, these therapies are not a substitute for orthodox treatments for acute psychotic symptoms, but complementary to them.

The best known are probably acupuncture, aromatherapy, herbalism, homeopathy, hypnotherapy, massage, reflexology and shiatsu or acupressure.

Anyone can set himself or herself up as a complementary therapist, so it is wise to be careful when seeking treatment.  Therapists who belong to a professional association have usually received adequate training and will be covered by professional indemnity and public liability insurance.